A Note from the VP, Jim Greatorex: July 2024: A Mid-Year Reflection

Published in Home Modifications on July 10, 2024

By Jim Greatorex, VP, VGM Live at Home

Dear VGM Live at Home Members,

As we bask in the warmth of summer, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the first half of 2024. This year has been marked by the initiation of ambitious projects. While these ventures are thrilling to embark upon, their extensive nature means we’re not yet at a point where we can unveil them in their entirety. However, we’re excited to share some progress updates:

Ongoing Projects

Apprenticeship Program: Our apprenticeship program is progressing smoothly. It has received approval from the state of Michigan, and we’ve applied for approval from the Bureau of Labor. We’re meticulously working through the process to identify any potential shortcomings before we roll out the program to our members. Look forward to a session at the Building Opportunities Summit that will provide an overview, along with practical guides and timelines.
Education Program: We’re developing a new education program that promises to be the most comprehensive offering in the U.S. This video-based program will demonstrate a complete home modification process, covering as many applicable modifications as our industry handles. Insights from occupational therapists, home access professionals, and leading manufacturers will enrich this program. Stay tuned for updates at the Building Opportunities Summit in November.
Technology Partnership: We’re in discussions with a technology company that offers a unique solution for home assessments, consumer and clinician education, and connecting the home access industry to the clinical community. This partnership could potentially provide vetted leads for home access companies. We plan to discuss this technology further at our November summit.

New Vendors

AutoSlide: AutoSlide offers an excellent swing door opener with several Bluetooth activation options. It’s competitively priced, easy to install, and they also provide solutions for sliding doors and pet doors. You can learn more about their offerings in their recently recorded webinar.
Long Bridge Financial (LBF): LBF is the leading financial institution for reverse mortgages in the U.S. As many financial experts predict, this financing solution will likely be highly utilized for home improvements in the near future. We’ll be hosting an introductory webinar for them once we get them onboarded, likely within the next six weeks.

Special Opportunity

We’re seeking 10 members interested in working with a new vertical platform lift (VPL) partner, Serenity Healthcare Products, during their soft launch. Serenity has had a residential VPL in the Canadian market for 12 years and plans to fully launch in the U.S. in November at the Building Opportunities Summit. If you’re interested, please reach out to me.

Upcoming Events

Podcast Release: We have a new podcast coming out with Alisa Brownlee, who specializes in home assessments for ALS patients. Watch for the release of this inspiring podcast.
Building Opportunities Summit: We’re finalizing the details for the Building Opportunities Summit and will open registration in mid-July. Mark your calendars for November 7-9. We can’t wait to see you in Kansas City!

Thank you again for your membership. It’s an honor to work with Live at Home members and vendors. Be proud of the work and services you provide—they make a significant difference in the communities you serve.

Best Regards,

Jim Greatorex
Vice President
VGM Live at Home

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